A CAM couple saw a golden opportunity to support a local cancer charity when they celebrated 50 years of marriage.

Jean and John Purcell, from Spark Hill, told guests at their party to make donations to the Cobalt Appeal Fund in memory of their son Greg - who died 13 years ago at the age of 34.

The Purcells were delighted after raising £742.40 and are encouraging other anniversary couples to follow suit.

Jean, 73, said: "After being lucky enough to be married for 50 years, we felt there wasn't really anything we needed in the way of presents. The Cobalt Appeal Fund provided envelopes for our friends and family to return their donations and arranged for Gift Aid to be claimed too. We were really pleased with the amount we raised and hope other Golden Wedding couples will consider doing the same."

Jean and her husband John, 77, were joined at The Prince of Wales Hotel in Berkeley and Coaley Village Hall by their daughter Stella and sons Ian - Greg's twin brother - and Clive, and their six grandchildren.

The couple met at an ice rink when Jean literally fell for John.

She said: "I fell over while skating and cut my head. John came to my rescue, carried me off the ice and took me to hospital. It was all quite romantic!"

They moved to Cam, from Middlesex, 22 years ago when John's career as a designer of diesel engines brought him to Lister-Petter's in Dursley.

Cobalt Appeal Fund co-ordinator Karen Davies said: "John and Jean are a fantastic couple who have done much to support the charity over the years. We'd like to thank them for their generous gesture on the occasion of their Golden Wedding and wish them many more happy years together."

For more information about the charity contact the Cobalt Fundraising Office on 01242 535900 or email fundraising@cobaltappeal.com